Which of the following metrics is the most appropriate measure of supply chain responsiveness?

Order fulfillment lead times are a critical metric for measuring supply chain responsiveness. This metric reflects the total time taken from receiving an order to delivering the product to the customer. Shorter lead times indicate a more responsive supply chain that can quickly adapt to changes in demand and deliver products faster. It encompasses various stages of the supply chain, including order processing, manufacturing, and logistics, providing a comprehensive measure of how swiftly the supply chain can respond to customer needs. Percentage of orders delivered on time, retail inventory days of supply, and upside production flexibility are important metrics but do not capture the overall responsiveness of the supply chain as effectively as order fulfillment lead times.

References:

Chopra, S., & Meindl, P. (2016). Supply Chain Management: Strategy, Planning, and Operation. Pearson.

Harrison, A., & Van Hoek, R. (2011). Logistics Management and Strategy: Competing through the Supply Chain. Pearson.